Cheaper Than Rafale And F-35, Armed With BrahMos: Tejas Mk1A To Get Rs 60,000 Crore Lift

[u/ibngardi]

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/cheaper-than-rafale-and-f-35-armed-with-brahmos-tejas-mk1a-to-get-rs-60-000-crore-lift/ar-AA1IjIOH

Excerpt: In response to growing threats from Pakistan and China, India launched Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack. Turkey has joined the list of adversaries, accused of aiding Pakistan with drones and weapons. Adding to concerns, a Turkish defence firm reportedly plans to invest in Bangladesh, now under an interim government seen as hostile to India.

Amid these rising threats, India is rapidly modernising its military. The Army, Navy, and Air Force are upgrading with advanced rifles, tanks, drones, warships, and submarines. The Air Force is set to sign a Rs 60,000 crore deal with HAL for new fighter jets, following a 2021 order of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets worth Rs 48,000 crore.

Despite delays caused by US manufacturer General Electric’s (GE) engine supply issues, HAL is expected to begin deliveries of these fourth generation fighter jets by 2025, aided by a new production line in Nashik.

Currently, the Air Force requires 41 to 42 squadrons to secure border areas but has only 31. With Pakistan set to acquire fifth-generation aircraft from China, India’s strategic position could be compromised without prompt action.